Can I disconnect Utilities on Tenants move in date?

[Sharon Miller]

We will ask tenants to transfer utilities to their name before handing out the keys. However we are in Tennessee, and we are not sure if we can shot off the utilities on Tenants move in date. 

[Greg Scott]

You would really get off on the wrong foot with your new residents if the day after they moved in the power went out simply because they forgot to call.  I wouldn't do that.

A gentle reminder is usually sufficient.  If they don't, you simply add the electric bill to their account and any monies collected first go towards the bill, then towards rent.  (It is often difficult to evict over a utility bill but easier to evict over non-payment of rent)  Most utilities allow a resident to back-date the transfer.  "I moved in 7 days ago".   If after a month the bill is still coming to you, then let the resident know you have removed utilities from your name and they have a limited time to transfer or they will be shut off.  Be sure not to get emotional about.  You are just following the office processes.